Devine House

An Introduction to Devine House

Nestled in the heart of Iwerne Minster village, Devine House offers a unique and charming boarding experience for boys at Clayesmore School. Just a 5–10 minute walk from the Main House, Devine boasts a welcoming atmosphere, a beautiful garden complete with a small football pitch, and serene views of a spring-fed pond. Its off-campus location gives boarders a sense of ‘coming home’ each day, fostering a strong sense of community and belonging.

Daily Life in Devine

From day one, boys receive the school calendar detailing term events, core values, key dates, and school policies. Tutors go over this during the first session, ensuring every student understands what’s expected and what to look forward to. At Devine, kindness and compassion are central. All boys are expected to take responsibility—making beds, keeping shared spaces tidy, and supporting each other both academically and emotionally.

Our Philosophy and Ethos

Devine House operates on four key pillars:

• Brotherhood
• Integrity
• Respect
• Determination

We believe in nurturing a family environment where every member feels safe, valued, and included. Participation, encouragement, and togetherness are at the heart of everything we do.

Meet the Devine Team

• Houseparent: Mr Cédric Didier
  Head of French & Co-Head of MFL
  devine@clayesmore.com | cdidier@clayesmore.com
  Tel: 01747 813184 | Mobile: 07387 265380
• Assistant Houseparent: Mr Richard Dixon
  Year 9 Tutor | Maths Teacher
  rdixon@clayesmore.com
• Matron: Fiona Bourke
  Available daily to assist with pastoral care, wellbeing, and logistics.
  devinematron@clayesmore.com | Tel: 01747 813229
• Visiting Tutors: Academic staff are on duty in the evenings (18:30–23:00) to support boys in the House.

Key Numbers:

• Health & Wellbeing Centre: 01747 813133
• Devine House: 01747 813147
• Day Room: 01747 813229

Tutor Support

Each boy is assigned an academic tutor. For Years 9–11, the tutor is usually part of the House team; for Years 12–13, it may be an academic mentor outside the House. Tutors provide both academic and pastoral support and regularly update parents.

House Prefects and Student Voice

Year 13 students help manage routines, support younger boys, and communicate with House staff. The House Council—with representatives from each year group—meets regularly to voice suggestions and discuss issues.

Technology & Social Media

Phones may be brought to school but must follow usage guidelines:

• Year 9 phones collected during the day
• No phone use in lessons or study time
• Electronics collected at night for Years 9–12
• Social media use must be kind and responsible

Day Pupils in Devine

Day pupils are fully integrated into House life. They receive lockers in the Main House and participate in House activities and routines. Signing in/out is required outside school hours for safeguarding.

Health & Wellbeing

The Health & Wellbeing Centre is open 24/7. Lead Nurse Sam Hillyard and her team offer care, overnight stays, and confidential support. Day pupils must report to the Centre if unwell before contacting parents.

Wellbeing Contacts Include:

• House Matron and Houseparent
• Tutors and teachers
• School chaplain and counsellors
• Independent Listener: Sian Highnam (07774 647060)

Academics and Independent Learning

Academic lessons follow a structured timetable with support via Google Classroom. Regular assessment grades and self-evaluations encourage reflection and goal-setting. Independent learning is a key goal, supported by tutors, Housestaff, and the Teaching and Learning Centre.

Games, LEX & Music

• Games: Compulsory unless excused; includes rugby, hockey, cricket, tennis, and more.
• LEX: A wide variety of enrichment activities take place during the week and at weekends.
• Music: Opportunities for choir, orchestra, and private tuition. Contact: Mr Ralph Kerr (rkerr@clayesmore.com)

House Routines

• Meals: All meals are taken in the dining hall; snacks available throughout the day.
• Evenings: Supper at 17:45, followed by Line and quiet prep time.
• Dorms: Most boys share dorms. Sixth Formers may have single rooms. Dorm etiquette is essential for shared respect and privacy.
• Cleaning & Laundry: Managed by the household team. Students are responsible for tidiness and laundry routines.

Weekends & Exeats

Weekends offer a mix of structured activities and downtime. These include:

• Takeaway nights and film evenings
• Cultural celebrations and BBQs
• Sunday trips and activities (cinema, city visits, sports)
• Tuck allowance: £3/week (cashless)

Exeats: Parents must notify the Houseparent by Thursday. Overseas students may stay during most exeats and must participate in organised activities.

Security, Fire Safety & Valuables

• Fire drills and safety procedures are part of every term.
• All electrical items are PAT tested.
• No student is allowed to keep medication in their room—this is managed by the Centre.
• Lockable drawers are provided. Cashless systems are used wherever possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Wi-Fi and Email: Setup support provided on day one.
Video Calling: Allowed in free time; be considerate of roommates.
Medication: Managed by the Health & Wellbeing Centre.
Birthdays: Small in-house celebrations encouraged. Parents can organise cakes/hampers.

Welcome to Devine House—a place of learning, brotherhood, and lifelong memories.

For more information, please contact:
Mr Cédric Didier, Houseparent
Email: devine@clayesmore.com